Some pre-game news and notes (and lineups)

Zach Britton (shoulder) had his work day in Sarasota today. He is expected to pitch Saturday in Bowie on his first rehab assignment – the 30-day clock for pitchers starts then. Britton will pitch again for Double-A Bowie in Akron on May 31. His schedule after that has not been announced.

J.J. Hardy is out of the lineup on Wednesday afternoon, just his second game off this year. Showalter said he wanted to give Hardy off two days in a row (with Thursday’s team off day) and said Hardy’s shoulder has been “a little barky” but he can play through it. Robert Andino will play shortstop and Ryan Flaherty is at second.

The Orioles have just pushed back their rotation one day due to Thursday’s off day. That means Jason Hammel will pitch Friday; Wei-Yin Chenon Saturday and Brian Matusz on Sunday. Tommy Hunter is tentatively scheduled for Monday.

Hammel said he had fluid drained from his right knee two days ago and is feeling better. The last few starts he’s had trouble going deep into games because of weakness/soreness in his knee. Showalter said he didn’t seriously consider skipping Hammel’s start because Hammel believes he can pitch and it would take a lot of rotation shuffling. Next week – with two more off days – might be more likely if Hammel’s knee is still hurting.